Class 31 - 31418 BR Blue
Out of stock
Detailed Description
Detailed Description
31418 BR Blue
Between 1971 and 1975, 24 Class 31s were upgraded with electric train heating capability (ETH) courtesy of a 320kW Brush BL100-30 alternator, the same as fitted to the similarly modified Class 45/1 ‘Peaks’ and Class 47/4s. Powered directly from the engine, this provided an impressive ETH index rating of 66, perfect for their expected duties shuttling empty coaching stock (ECS) in and out of King’s Cross, Paddington and St. Pancras as well as portions of ‘air-con’ trains around the Leeds/Doncaster area. An oddity within the new sub class was 31418, the former D5522 of 30A, which was from the lower geared 80mph batch delivered in 1959 and also the only disc headcode or ‘skinhead’ machine to be converted until a second series of Class 31/4s was undertaken in the mid 1980s. In 1978, having swapped North London for Gateshead via a spell at Finsbury Park, it saw its connecting doors plated over, which resulted in the loss of its centre pair of discs. It retained this basic appearance for the next nine years before being ‘refurbished’ at Doncaster in October 1987, which saw it lose its steam generator, bufferbeam cowls and bodyside banding. The ETH receptacle was also resited to the driver’s side corner of the cab front. Within days of release it was unofficially named Boadicea and received white painted ‘discs’ the following year, both customisations surviving to its withdrawal from Springs Branch with engine failure in October 1995. With minor celebrity status it was quickly purchased for preservation at the Great Central Railway, before joining A1A Locomotive Ltd’s fleet in 2002. Over the last two decades it has been slowly restored to 1970-80s condition at the group’s base at Swanwick Junction and is expected to be completed within the next few years.
Specification
Specification
Lighting and DCC
Lighting and DCC
Common Features
Common Features
Excellent model
I remember seeing these locomotives on ECS duties around Kings Cross and London Paddington in the 1970’s and 1980’s, so just had to have one. Very impressive! Well done Accurascale. 👍
This is my 11th model from Accurascale's 30/31 range. A masterpiece in 1/76 scale with close attention to detail, smooth running and superb sound, there isn't a lot that Accurascale can do to improve this range of Locomotives. Surely there is a place on most layouts for an Accurascale class 30/31
31418 has long been a favourite loco of mine and Accurascale have captured Boadecia in exquisite detail. I well recall seeing the loco regularly at Colchester and Ipswich on parcels trains in the 1990s. This model from Accurascale is well worth the 35 year wait for me to do the same in model form. Thankyou Accurascale!
This is my second Accurascale Class 31 and my second 5 star review of this product line. Exceptional detail and flawless finish. Smooth as silk when on the move.cant wait to see what next for Run 3.
Fantastic model, I have one observation the pipes when fitted hang down, When I was a Driver with BR, I would not have taken a loco of the shed with the pipes hanging down would make the secondman hang them up on thier respective dummies . this maybe something that could be look at for future projects.
Really captures the unique nature of 418, definitely out of era for me but being from Norwich I couldn't resist given its local roots.
A stunningly beautiful model which runs perfectly. I’m very happy with this class 31.
Despite the class 31 being my least favourite diesel of the early 80’s, I always loved seeing a skinhead. This model is a beaut.
Very nice model train I look real like class 31 I remember I saw at Birmingham new street 31418.
Can’t wait for the next run
Great model with great detail 👌
Another fantastic loco from Accurascale. The look is just right, and the sound is excellent - it takes me back to the good old days. Running is second to none, with very impressive slow speed performance. Function control is extensive, allow involved driving of the loco. Great value too. Just need you to release the Class 33 now!
Excellent model great with the other 31s need to order the next set of 31s
Another 5 star product from Accurascale, which really captures the 'skin-head' look of the prototype, first seen many years ago at Stratford (pre TOPS!). Many thanks!!
I travelled many many miles behind the real loco. I simply had to have one.
The Accurascale Class 31 – 31418 in BR Blue is nothing short of outstanding. From the moment you lift it from the box, it’s clear that this model sets a new benchmark for quality, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Detailing is exceptional – every grill, louvre, and panel line is crisply rendered, and the separately fitted components give the locomotive a genuine depth and realism. The BR Blue paint application is flawless: rich, even, and authentically weather‑free, with perfectly printed numbers and markings that really make 31418 stand out.
Performance is equally impressive. Straight out of the box, the model runs incredibly smoothly and quietly. The motor is refined and responsive, with excellent slow‑speed control – ideal for shunting or depot scenes. Even in DC form, it has a weighty presence and fantastic haulage capability, easily managing long rakes without hesitation.
Accurascale’s build quality feels top-tier: solid, well‑assembled, and premium in every way. The lighting functions are beautifully implemented, realistic, and crisp, adding to the overall immersion.
As a representation of a classic Type 2, this model is a triumph. Whether you're a BR Blue era modeller or simply a fan of iconic British diesel traction, 31418 is an absolute must‑have. Accurascale continue to raise the bar for UK-outline models, and this release proves once again why they’re one of the most exciting manufacturers in the hobby today.
Highly recommended – a five‑star locomotive in every sense!
What a superb product.
State of the art tooling resulting in a stunning looking model.
Fantastic packaging box nice and strong
Good no superb level of detail on the model.
Price reasonable not expensive as other manufacturers for the same type of loco. I’ve acquired a number of models from this manufacturer all are superb . Look forward to what their planning next class 40, hint, hint
My third class 31 from Accurascale and I've just seen more announced which I will be buying also. Accurascale simply are the best manufacturer of models in the market now. No other company comes close to producing the quality and after sales support. I hope they make a class 40 next as I would really love to buy some Accurascale class 40s from each batch. Thank you Accurascale.
Unpacking this loco was like time travel back to the early 1980's when it was standard haulage on the Table 18 services from Norwich to Birmingham. It captures the look of the loco perfectly; ok, maybe it isn't battered enough or the paint worn enough to be the March-based loco we remember, but as a model it is utterly superb. Moreover, it 'Looks Right'.
Great model, great service
Received mine and I am very happy. I bought the BR blue and the BR green locomotive. With the market over crowded with roof head code locos, these models make a nice change. I am very impressed with mine. Well done Accurascale
Another stunning locomotive from Accurascale very smooth and quiet runner well done to everyone at Accurascale 👍🏻
Hi guys, lovely model, I went behind this loco back in 1983 and it was the first 31 four that I'd been behind so it was always a bit special to me, so when you were going to model it, I just had to have one.
Only one point I have noticed is the cab side windows art quite clear as on other models, are they slightly magnified to show off the amazing cab detail ?
Certainly brings back happy memories, thanks a lot.
Kind regards
Steve.
Already have 2 class 31s and couldn’t resist a third. It is a quality well equipped model and well worth the money. Superb.
I am very fortunate in having a number of Accurascale locomotives. All have been perfect and operate smoothly and quietly straight from the box. This loco is no exception!